DRIED SWEET POTATO CHEWS
You’ll love making this sweet potato dog chew recipe for your dog because sweet potatoes are loaded with beneficial antioxidants and nutrients. They are rich in Vitamin A, C and E, Vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B6, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Potassium. They also contain valuable anti-inflammatory nutrients, and are classified as an anti-diabetic food. They received this title because animal studies have found that sweet potatoes help stabilize blood sugar levels and lower insulin resistance.
2-3 Large Sweet Potatoes, washed thoroughly and dried
Preheat oven to 110° C (250° F)
Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cut off one side of the sweet potato lengthwise, as close to the edge as possible. Cutting the side of the potato first allows you to then turn the potato onto this flat surface that you have just created. Having a stable area to rest the potato will make it easier to cut the potato into slices. Don’t discard that first piece, it comes out just as yummy as the rest!
Cut the rest of the potato into slices, no smaller than 1/4″.
Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 3 hours, turning over after 90 minutes.
(Baking for 3 hours results in a soft, but chewy dog treat. If your dog prefers more of a crunch, then bake for an additional 20-30 minutes).
When you take the sweet potatoes out of the oven, they may at first appear to be too soft. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before you decide whether or not to bake them longer. This is because they will continue to dry or harden while cooling.
Storing – Although these treats are dried, you will want to keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. You can freeze them for up to 4 months.
Feed these chews as a treat. Feed a 1 to 2 inch portion per 4.5 kg (10 lbs) of body weight. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your pet’s diet.
As with any treat, always provide fresh water after feeding.